US20040223080A1 - Signal delivery apparatus, hinge apparatus and image photographing apparatus - Google Patents
Signal delivery apparatus, hinge apparatus and image photographing apparatus Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20040223080A1 US20040223080A1 US10/777,074 US77707404A US2004223080A1 US 20040223080 A1 US20040223080 A1 US 20040223080A1 US 77707404 A US77707404 A US 77707404A US 2004223080 A1 US2004223080 A1 US 2004223080A1
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- Prior art keywords
- hinge
- respect
- housing
- fixing bracket
- main body
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N23/00—Cameras or camera modules comprising electronic image sensors; Control thereof
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N23/00—Cameras or camera modules comprising electronic image sensors; Control thereof
- H04N23/50—Constructional details
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N23/00—Cameras or camera modules comprising electronic image sensors; Control thereof
- H04N23/50—Constructional details
- H04N23/51—Housings
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N23/00—Cameras or camera modules comprising electronic image sensors; Control thereof
- H04N23/60—Control of cameras or camera modules
- H04N23/667—Camera operation mode switching, e.g. between still and video, sport and normal or high- and low-resolution modes
Definitions
- the present invention relates to signal delivery in a digital camera, and, more particularly, a signal delivery apparatus which electrically connects for signal delivery, a first and second member rotating in relation to each other, a hinge apparatus and an image photographing apparatus (digital camera) using the same.
- a digital still camera converts images input through a lens into digital signals and records the digitized signals on a recording medium such as a hard disc or a memory card. Captured images are not necessarily recorded on film (e.g., 35 mm film), but can instead be stored in the recording medium and be directly output to an external device such as a computer, without having to use intermediate devices such as a scanner.
- a DSC has a high degree of compatibility with a personal computer, enabling easy editing and correcting of the photo image. With almost the same structure as that of regular camera, the DSC is also easy to carry.
- the DSC is primarily comprised of a lens device, a memory device, a signal modulating device, and a display device.
- the DSC is mostly used to photograph still images. While in theory the DSC is able to capture motion pictures for a limited time, in practice, it is almost impossible to do so for a long period of time. In addition, as the DSC is currently unable to record and reproduce sound, the DSC is usually not used to take, record or reproduce motion pictures.
- a recording/reproducing apparatus such as a camcorder can be used to record and reproduce audio information as well as images of the object.
- camcorders typically use electromagnetic tape as a recording medium.
- the camcorder includes a lens device, a signal converting device, a deck device for recording/reproducing captured images and a display device.
- the camcorder usually uses a cassette tape as a recording medium which is mounted on the deck device to record captured motion pictures on the cassette tape. Additionally, the camcorder is provided with a microphone and speaker devices, and is able to capture motion pictures on the cassette tape mounted thereon for almost an hour. Camcorders can also photograph still images, but due to somewhat poor image quality as compared to the DSC, the camcorder is usually used for motion picture photographing. Additionally, the camcorder has a more complicated structure than the DSC, and a greater volume and is more expensive.
- An object of the present invention is to substantially solve at least the above problems and/or disadvantages and to provide at least the advantages described below.
- the hinge apparatus rotatably connects a housing with respect to a main body so that the housing can rotate in a predetermined rotation range.
- the hinge apparatus includes a fixing bracket secured to the main body, a hinge unit secured to the housing and connected to the fixing bracket to be reciprocatingly rotatable within a predetermined angle, and a shaft member for rotatably connecting the hinge unit and the fixing bracket so that the hinge unit and the fixing bracket can be rotated with respect to each other.
- the hinge apparatus further includes a sensing unit disposed on the hinge unit and/or the fixing bracket to sense the relative rotational range of the hinge unit with respect to the fixing bracket.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating two main components of an image photographing apparatus according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 2 is a schematic view illustrating the image photographing apparatus according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 3 is a side sectional view of the image photographing apparatus according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIGS. 4 and 5 are exploded perspective views of a hinge apparatus according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 6 is a plan view showing the fixing bracket of FIG. 4;
- FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing the fixing bracket and the click plate of FIG. 4 being connected;
- FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating the hinge of FIG. 4 being connected
- FIG. 9 is a plan view illustrating the hinge bracket of FIG. 4;
- FIG. 10 is a perspective view illustrating the hinge apparatus of FIG. 4 with the signal delivery unit connected;
- FIG. 11 is a plan view illustrating the contact plate of FIG. 4;
- FIG. 12 is a plan view illustrating the clock plate of FIG. 4;
- FIG. 13 is a sectional view taken on line I-I of FIG. 11;
- FIGS. 14A through 14C are plan views illustrating the components of the signal delivery unit of FIG. 4 separately;
- FIG. 15 is a plan view illustrating the components of the signal delivery unit of FIG. 14 nested on one another;
- FIG. 16 is a perspective view illustrating a method for winding the nested signal deliver unit of FIG. 14;
- FIG. 17 is a perspective view illustrating the posture of the nested signal delivery unit in the image photographing apparatus according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 18 is a sectional view of the nested signal delivery unit illustrated in FIG. 17 viewed from a side;
- FIG. 19 is a sectional view illustrating winding portion of the nested signal delivery unit of FIG. 17;
- FIG. 20 is a sectional view illustrating straight portions of the nested signal delivery unit of FIG. 15;
- FIG. 21 is a perspective view illustrating the nested signal delivery unit being assembled to the hinge apparatus according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 22 is a perspective view illustrating a sub-circuit board being assembled to the hinge apparatus according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 23 is a plan view illustrating the status of the hinge apparatus prior to it being assembled into the housing
- FIG. 24 is a plan view illustrating the assembling status of the hinge apparatus after it is rotated from the position of FIG. 23;
- FIG. 25 is a sectional view taken on line 11 - 11 of FIG. 24;
- FIG. 26 is a perspective view illustrating a hinge apparatus according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention being pre-assembled to the main body.
- FIG. 27 is a plan view illustrating the hinge apparatus according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention being coupled to the main body.
- an image photographing apparatus according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention is illustrated that includes a body 10 , a camera system 20 connected to the body 10 , a hinge apparatus 30 for movably connecting the body 10 and the camera system 20 in a rotatable fashion relative to each other, and a signal delivery unit 180 .
- a main body 11 having a moving deck 12 to record a motion picture, and a sub body 13 protruding from a side of the main body 11 .
- the moving deck 12 is open and closed by a deck door 14 which is movably disposed on the lower portion of the main body 11 . Because the moving deck 12 used in the body 10 is well known to those skilled in the art, and is commonly used in a general camcorder, a detailed description of it will be omitted.
- the main body 11 is also provided with a view finder 15 , which displays the image as captured, or images as reproduced.
- An LCD panel 17 is movably mounted on the sub body 13 .
- the camera system 20 includes a housing 21 movably disposed on the body 10 , and a camera unit housing a plurality of cameras each having a different number of pixels.
- the housing 21 is rotatably connected to the body 10 by the hinge apparatus 30 . Accordingly, the housing 21 is movably connected to the side of the body 10 so that the housing 21 reciprocatingly rotates with respect to a second axis Z within a predetermined angle.
- the predetermined angle is at or about 270°.
- the camera unit includes a first camera unit 23 that provides a digital still camera (DSC) function, and a second camera unit 25 that provides a digital video camera function.
- the digital video camera has a fewer amount of pixels than the first camera unit 23 and photographs images including motion pictures.
- the first camera unit 23 has the same structure as that of the camera employed in a general digital still camera, and is provided with a zoom lens 24 .
- the second camera unit 25 has the same structure as the photographing unit of a general camcorder.
- the respective camera units 23 , 25 are arranged oppositely to each other with respect to the second axis Z, and photograph in opposite directions.
- the camera units 23 , 25 are driven independently of each other, and when one is in operation, the other one is not in operation. Therefore, which camera unit 23 , 25 is in a photographing mode depends upon the position of the housing 21 and a predetermined driving range R.
- the camera units 23 , 25 are exposed to both ends of the housing 21 , respectively.
- the control unit receives a signal indicative of the rotational position of the hinge apparatus 30 , and thus, subsequently shifts to a ‘DSC’ mode which photographs still images. The control unit then controls the driving of the first camera unit 23 .
- the first camera unit 23 is out of the photographing range R and the second camera unit 23 in the range R.
- a signal indicative of the rotational position of the hinge apparatus 30 is received, and the control unit shifts to a ‘DVC’ mode which photographs images including motion pictures, and controls the driving of the second camera unit 25 .
- the body 10 there also is a main circuit board 16 , while a sub circuit board 26 is housed in the housing 21 .
- the main circuit board 16 and the sub circuit board 26 are electrically connected to each other for signal transmission and reception.
- the sub circuit board 26 is also electrically connected to the first and the second camera units 23 , 25 .
- the circuit boards 16 , 26 are arranged in parallel with a first axis direction Y, which is orthogonal with respect to the second axis direction Z. With this arrangement, the circuit boards 16 , 26 are arranged in the body 10 and the housing 21 efficiently using the spaces, while being easily connected to the signal delivery unit 180 .
- the hinge apparatus 30 is disposed on the connecting area between the housing 21 and the body 10 .
- the hinge apparatus 30 connects the housing 21 to the body 10 so that the housing 21 can rotate in the second axis direction Z.
- Each hinge hole 11 a , 21 a is of the same size and formed in the corresponding position.
- the hinge apparatus 30 connects the main body 11 and the housing 21 through the respective hinge holes 11 a , 21 a , and comprises a fixing bracket 110 secured to the body 10 , and a hinge unit 150 secured to the housing 21 and connected to the fixing bracket 110 to rotate within a predetermined angle.
- the hinge apparatus 30 further comprises a shaft member 160 that connects the fixing bracket 110 and the hinge unit 150 in a manner that the fixing bracket 110 and the hinge unit 150 rotate with respect to each other within a predetermined angle, a sensing unit 170 that senses the rotational position of the hinge unit 150 with respect to the fixing bracket 110 and a signal delivery unit 180 that electrically connects the body 10 with the camera system 20 .
- the fixing bracket 110 comprises a body 111 passed through the hinge hole 11 a and inserted in the main body 11 to be secured therein, and a first locking protrusion 112 formed on a first surface 111 a of the body 111 .
- the fixing bracket 110 further comprises a first rib 113 protruding from the first surface 111 a to a different circumference from the first locking protrusion 112 , and a second rib 114 protruding from the first rib 113 .
- the body 111 has a shaft hole 111 b at the center to receive the shaft member 160 .
- a shaft supporter 115 of a predetermined thickness is formed around the shaft hole 111 b .
- the first protrusion 112 restricts the rotational movement of the hinge unit 150 when the first protrusion 112 is rotated with respect to the hinge unit 150 .
- the first protrusion 112 is provided at the extreme outer position of the first surface 111 a of the body 111 , and is formed at approximately 45° with respect to the second axis direction Z.
- the movement of the first protrusion 112 together with the second protrusion 132 have an angular displacement of approximately 90° with respect to the second axis direction Z.
- the first and the second protrusions 112 , 132 preclude rotational movement of the housing 21 for an angle of approximately 90°. Accordingly, the housing 21 is allowed to reciprocatingly rotate 360° less the angular displacement of the respective protrusions 112 , 132 (which is approximately 90°). As a result, the housing 21 can rotate within approximately 270°.
- the first rib 113 protrudes from the first surface 111 a in an annular fashion to a predetermined height, and in an outer diameter smaller than inner diameter of the first protrusion 112 .
- the second rib 114 protrudes from the first rib 113 in a smaller outer diameter than the first rib 113 and to another predetermined height.
- Each of the first and the second ribs 113 , 114 is either directly or indirectly in contact with the hinge unit 150 .
- the first surface 111 a and the first protrusion 112 are in contact with the hinge unit 150 .
- annular hole 116 Between the second rib 114 and the shaft hole 111 b , there is an annular hole 116 .
- the annular hole 116 shares the outer circumference of the shaft supporter 115 and the inner surface of the second rib 114 as an inner and an outer surfaces s 1 , s 2 , and has a bottom surface s 3 between the inner and the outer surfaces s 1 , s 2 .
- a part of the signal delivery unit 180 which is wound a predetermined number of times, is received in the annular hole 116 . Enough space is provided between the inner and the outer surfaces s 1 , s 2 so as to allow the wound portion of the signal delivery unit 180 in the annular hole 116 to be wound or unwound a predetermined number of times.
- a through hole 116 a of a suitable size for the signal delivery unit 180 to pass therethrough is formed at the bottom surface s 3 of the annular hole 116 .
- the through hole 116 a is formed in the fixing bracket 110 in parallel with the second axis Z.
- a plurality of recesses 114 c is formed on the outer circumference of the second rib 114 to position a click plate 191 (which will be described in greater detail below) and secure it in the determined position.
- the recesses 114 c are formed at irregular intervals with respect to the second axis Z, enabling the click plate 191 to connect only at a predetermined position.
- the fixing bracket 110 is provided with a pair of sensing holes 114 a , 114 b formed in the second surface 111 c of the fixing bracket 110 .
- the sensing holes 114 a , 114 b are formed at predetermined distances from each other, and at a predetermined distance from the second axis Z.
- the cam pins 173 , 174 of the sensing unit 170 protrude from the second rib 114 to pass through the sensing holes 114 a , 114 b.
- a first receiving recess 117 a is formed on the second surface 111 c of the fixing bracket 110 and is in communication with the through hole 116 a .
- the first receiving recess 117 a extends from the through hole 116 a to the outer circumference of the body 111 .
- the signal delivery unit 180 passes through the through hole 116 a and is received in the first receiving recess 117 a in a bent state at an angle of approximately 90°.
- the first receiving recess 117 a is formed deeper than the thickness of the signal delivery unit 180 .
- the second receiving recess 117 b receives a signal delivery member 210 after the signal delivery member 210 is passed through the shaft member 160 , which is fit in the shaft hole 111 b .
- the second receiving recess 117 b extends from the shaft hole 111 b to the outer circumference of the body 111 , and is formed to have an enough depth so that the signal delivery member 210 can be received in the second receiving recess 117 b in a bent state without protruding from the second surface 111 c.
- the third receiving recess 117 c includes sensing holes 114 a , 114 b .
- the third receiving recess 117 c is formed such that it is centered about the second axis Z, and is in fluid communication with the sensing holes 114 a , 114 b .
- the sensing holes 114 a , 114 b receive the sensing unit 170 .
- a fourth receiving recess 117 d is formed on the second surface 111 c of the fixing bracket 110 on a higher plane than the third receiving recess 117 c .
- the fourth receiving recess 117 d receives a signal cable 220 which connects the sensing unit 170 to the main circuit board 16 inside the body 10 .
- the fourth receiving recess 117 b overlaps, in part, with the second receiving recess 117 b and formed on a higher plane than the second receiving recess 117 b .
- the signal cable 220 in the fourth receiving recess 117 d supports the signal delivery member 210 in the second receiving recess 117 b by tight contact.
- the fourth receiving recess 117 d extends from a side of the third receiving recess 117 c to the outer circumference of the body 111 .
- the fixing bracket 110 further includes a plurality of connecting grooves 118 a , 118 b formed at the outer circumference of the body 111 .
- Each of the connecting grooves 118 a , 118 b is formed in a predetermined length in the circumferential direction, and at a predetermined depth toward the rotational axis.
- Support brackets 51 , 53 (described in greater detail below) are fit in to the connecting grooves 118 a , 118 b . More specifically, as the fixing bracket 110 is passed through the hinge hole 11 a of the body 10 , the support brackets 51 , 53 are fit in the connecting grooves 118 a , 118 b , and then secured to the inner wall of the main body 11 . Accordingly, the fixing bracket 110 is secured to the body 10 .
- a plurality of screw holes 119 are formed in fluid communication with the connecting groove 118 b in the second surface 111 c of the body 111 . Screws are fastened into the screw holes 119 to fix the support bracket 53 fit in the connecting groove 118 b onto the fixing bracket 110 .
- the hinge unit 150 includes a hinge bracket 120 fixed onto the housing 21 , a contact plate 130 connected with the hinge bracket 120 and a plate spring 140 disposed between the hinge bracket 120 and the contact plate 130 .
- the hinge bracket 120 includes a body 121 having a shaft hole 120 a defined therein to receive the shaft member 160 , and an annular rib 122 protruding from the first surface 121 a of the body 121 .
- the contact plate 130 and the plate spring 140 are fastened to the annular rib 122 with the inner circumferences thereof being in close contact with the outer circumference of the annular rib 122 .
- Positioning portions are formed respectively on the annular rib 122 , the contact plate 130 and the plate spring 140 to enable the complementary connection between the contact plate 130 , the plate spring 140 and the annular rib 122 .
- the positioning portion includes a plurality of projections 123 formed on the outer circumference of the annular rib 122 toward the first surface 121 a of the hinge bracket 120 , and fixing holes 133 , 143 formed on the inner circumferences of the contact plate 130 and the plate spring 140 to correspond to the projections 123 .
- the projections 123 and the fixing holes 133 , 143 are preferably formed at uniform intervals. For example, three of each fixing holes 133 , 143 can be formed, and angularly displaced at approximately 120°.
- the hinge bracket 120 additionally includes an annular groove 126 which is defined between the annular rib 122 and the shaft hole 120 a . More specifically, the annular groove 126 is defined between the outer circumference of a shaft hole part 125 which has the shaft hole 120 a therein, and the inner circumference of the annular rib 122 . As shown in FIG. 10, the annular groove 126 , like the annular groove 116 of the fixing bracket 110 , receives the wound portion of the signal delivery unit 180 . Accordingly, it is preferred that the annular groove 126 be in symmetrical configuration with the annular groove 116 of the fixing bracket 110 .
- a passing hole 126 a of a predetermined size is formed in the bottom of the annular groove 126 , and the signal deliver unit 180 is passed therethrough.
- a seating recess 127 for a caulking plate 162 is formed on the second surface 121 b of the hinge bracket 120 .
- the seating recess 127 is in fluid communication with the passing hole 126 a which penetrates through the hinge bracket 120 caulking
- the seating groove 127 is formed around the shaft hole 120 a to a predetermined depth and is substantially circular.
- the caulking plate 162 is seated on the seating recess 127 and is connected with the shaft member 160 .
- the caulking plate 162 is connected to an end of the shaft member 160 which is passed through the shaft holes 111 b , 120 a of the fixing bracket 110 and the hinge bracket 120 , to prevent separation of the shaft member 160 and securely connect the fixing bracket 110 and the hinge unit 150 . Accordingly, as the shaft member 160 is received in the fastening hole 162 a of the caulking plate 162 , the end of the shaft member 160 is caulked and thus secured in position.
- the shaft member 160 has a tubular shape with a hollow hole 160 a formed therein for the signal delivery member 210 to pass through.
- the signal delivery member 210 includes approximately 10 signal lines for high capacity electric signals that can be transmitted by the signal delivery unit 180 .
- the signal lines of the signal delivery member 210 are usually provided in a bundle.
- the signal delivery member further includes a power line.
- a plurality of supporting bosses 128 a are formed on the second surface 121 of the hinge bracket 120 . Some of the supporting bosses 128 a have screw holes therein.
- the sub circuit board 26 which is electrically connected with the signal delivery unit 180 , is seated on the supporting bosses 128 a and fastened by screws.
- a pair of aligning ribs 128 b protrudes from the second surface 121 a of the hinge bracket 120 in parallel to align the signal delivery member 210 which passes through the shaft hole 120 a .
- the aligning ribs 128 b extend from the outer circumference of the body 121 to a height preferably the same as the supporting bosses 128 a .
- the sub circuit board 26 is supported by contact with the supporting bosses 128 a and the aligning ribs 128 b .
- There is predetermined space between the second surface 121 a of the hinge bracket 120 and the sub circuit board 26 allowing the signal delivery unit 180 and the signal delivery member 210 to pass through without interruption.
- a plurality of fixtures 129 protrudes from the outer circumference of the body 121 at predetermined intervals.
- Each fixture 129 has a screw hole defined therein.
- the hinge bracket 120 is secured to the housing 21 through use of screws fastened into the screw holes.
- Some of the fixtures 129 are formed at the same height as the first surface 121 a of the body 121 , while the others are formed at the same height as the second surface 121 b .
- the fixtures 129 can be formed in the second axis Z, with equal heights and in symmetrical relation with each other., The fixtures 129 can then be used to make fastening to the housing 21 more efficient and secure. This will be described in greater detail below.
- a cam surface C is provided to an upper end of the annular rib 122 along the circumference of the annular rib 122 , to detect the movement range of the fixing bracket 110 that rotates.
- the cam surface C includes an operating surface C 1 formed by a predetermined length at substantially the same height as the annular rib 122 , a non-contact surface C 2 formed on a lower plane than the operating surface C 1 but also with a predetermined length, and an inclined surface C 3 connecting the operating surface C 1 and the non-contact surface C 2 .
- the operating surface C 1 faces the second rib 114 of the fixing bracket 110 in contact therewith.
- cam pins 173 , 174 protrude through the sensing holes 114 a , 114 b of the second rib 114 , the cam pins 173 , 174 are pushed backward by contact with the operating surface C 1 . Because the non-contact surface C 2 is formed on a lower plane than the operating surface C 1 to face but also remain spaced apart from the second rib 114 at a predetermined distance, the cam pins 173 , 174 are not in contact with the non-contact surface C 2 .
- the inclined surface C 3 guides the cam pins 173 , 174 therealong. With respect to a circle having the second axis Z as a center, the operating surface C 1 is formed to cover a length corresponding to a predetermined angle.
- the operating surface C 1 is formed at a predetermined length in consideration of the interval between the cam pins 173 , 174 so that only one of the cam pins 173 , 174 can be contacted and operated therealong. Accordingly, the length of the operating surface C 1 determines the movement range of the selected one of the cam pins 173 174 , and the operation mode of the first and the second camera units 23 , 25 are determined and maintained in the determined movement range.
- the contact plate 130 fits in the annular rib 122 to face the first surface 121 a of the body 121 . Accordingly, the contact plate 130 has an inner circumference corresponding to the outer circumference of the annular rib 122 of the contact plate 130 , and has the same, or smaller outer diameter when compared to that of the fixing bracket 110 .
- On the surface of the contact plate 130 facing the fixing bracket 110 there is a second locking protrusion 132 corresponding to the first locking protrusion 112 . Referring to FIG. 11, the second locking protrusion- 132 is formed at the extreme outer side of the contact plate 130 .
- the second locking protrusion 132 is locked in the first locking protrusion 112 to limit the rotational movement range of the housing 21 with respect to the body 10 .
- the second locking protrusion 132 together with the first locking protrusion 112 , has an angular displacement of approximately 90°, which limits rotational movement of the housing 21 .
- each of the first and second locking protrusions 112 , 132 covers approximately 45°.
- the second locking protrusion 132 can protrude to the same plane as the first locking protrusion 112 , is in contact with, and faces, the first surface 111 a of the fixing bracket 110 .
- the plate spring 140 is preferably made of metal material which can be compressed and decompressed in the direction of second axis Z, to urge the contact plate 130 toward the fixing bracket 110 .
- the fixing bracket 110 in its normal state is inhibited from rotating with respect to the hinge unit 150 and can be rotated by a predetermined torsion force overcoming the frictional force.
- the hinge apparatus 30 further includes a click force providing unit disposed between the fixing bracket 110 and the contact plate 130 to provide a predetermined click at predetermined intervals during the rotation of the housing 21 with respect to the body 10 .
- the click force providing unit includes a click plate 191 connected to the fixing bracket 110 and a plurality of click balls 193 arranged between the click plate 191 and the contact plate 130 .
- the click plate 191 is preferably made of metal material and formed to a ring shape. On the side of the click plate 191 facing the contact plate 130 , a plurality of click holes 191 a are formed. As shown in FIG. 12, the click holes 191 a are arranged at predetermined angles with respect to the center of second axis Z. In the embodiment of the present invention, the click holes 191 a are arranged in intervals of approximately 45°.
- the click balls 193 are clicked into the click holes 191 a . Accordingly, as the click plate 191 is rotated, the click balls 193 are repeatedly clicked in and out of the click holes 191 a .
- the click plate 191 further includes a guide groove 191 b connecting the click holes 191 a . More specifically, the guide groove 191 b guides the click balls 193 rolling between the click holes 191 a .
- the guide groove 191 b is formed on a higher plane than the click holes 191 a.
- the click plate 191 of the above-described construction is secured in the second rib 114 and seated on the first rib 113 of the fixing bracket 110 .
- the click plate 113 and the second rib 114 are respectively provided with a positioning portion to determine respective connection positions and secure the click plate 113 and the second rib 114 in the determined connecting positions.
- the positioning portion includes a plurality of positioning holes 114 c formed on the outer circumference of the second rib 114 at predetermined intervals, and a plurality of positioning protrusions 191 c formed on the inner circumference of the click plate 191 to correspond to the positioning holes 114 c .
- the positioning holes 114 c and the positioning protrusions 191 c are formed at irregular intervals.
- the ‘clicking’ occurs at predetermined positions. For example, positioning can be made properly with respect to the cam pins 173 , 174 so that clicking can occur in every on/off switching of modes between DVC and DSC modes.
- the click balls 193 are preferably made of a metal material, corresponding to the click holes 191 a respectively. As shown in FIG. 13, the click balls 193 protrude from a surface of the contact plate 130 for rolling motion. To accomplish the rolling motion, the click ball recesses 134 are formed on the surface of the contact plate 130 with a radius r wider than that of the click balls 193 . Accordingly, the click balls 193 can be seated with the center of gravity G stabley positioned in the click ball recesses 134 . Therefore, the click balls 193 are not easily dislodged from the click ball recesses 134 . Preferably, lubricating oil is applied to the click ball recesses 134 for smooth rolling of the click balls 193 .
- Each click ball recess 134 includes a spherical surface 134 a on which the click ball 193 is closely seated.
- An upright cylindrical surface 134 b is formed at the entry part of the click ball recess 134 . Due to this structure, the click balls 193 can be easily inserted in the click ball recesses 134 .
- the click balls 193 are selectively arranged around the second axis Z and along a surface of the contact plate 130 at an interval of approximately 45°.
- the click balls 193 are not arranged on the contact plate 130 where the fixing holes 133 are formed.
- the clicking positioning portions are provided to the fixing bracket 110 , the hinge bracket 120 and the contact plate 130 , respectively.
- the clicking positioning portions include positioning slits 110 e , 120 e , 130 e formed in the respective outer circumferences of the fixing plate 110 , the hinge bracket 120 and the contact plate 130 .
- the hinge bracket 120 and the contact plate 130 are first assembled with each other, with the hinge bracket slit 120 e and contact plate slit 130 e being aligned with each other and the plate spring 140 being interposed therebetween.
- the fixing bracket 110 is then placed in contact with the contact plate 130 and with the hinge bracket slit 120 e , and the contact plate slit 130 e is aligned with the fixing bracket slit 110 e . Accordingly, the respective click balls 193 and the click holes 191 a are docked in the intended positions, whereby the clicking action can occur.
- the cam pins 173 , 174 of the sensing unit 170 (described in greater detail below) and the cam surface C can also be made to align with each other in assembling process.
- the sensing unit 170 is provided to the fixing bracket 110 and/or the hinge unit 150 to sense the relative rotation of the hinge unit 150 with respect to the fixing bracket 110 . Accordingly, the above-mentioned ‘photography mode’ is determined based on the sensing signal from the sensing unit 170 .
- the sensing unit 170 includes an elastic piece 171 disposed on the second surface 111 c of the body 111 of the fixing bracket 110 , a pair of cam pins 173 , 174 disposed on both ends 171 a , 171 b of the elastic piece 171 , and a pair of switches 175 , 176 provided to the positions corresponding to the cam pins 173 , 174 .
- the elastic piece 171 is preferably made of a metal material, and is inserted in the third receiving recess 117 c of the first surface 111 a of the body 111 .
- the elastic piece 171 is secured onto the bottom of the third receiving recess 117 c , approximately at the middle portion thereof by proper fasteners such as screws. Both ends 171 a , 171 b of the elastic piece 171 remain as free ends to allow for elastic deformation and recovery.
- the cam pins 173 , 174 are supported on both ends 171 a , 171 b of the elastic piece 171 , and protrude towards the first surface 111 a of the body 111 through the sensing holes 114 a , 114 b formed in the body 111 .
- Cam pins 173 , 174 are positioned to protrude through the section of the second rib 114 having the sensing holes 114 a , 114 b therein, and thus face the cam surface C of the hinge bracket 120 .
- any one of the cam pins 173 , 174 contacts the operating surface C 1 of the cam surface C during rotation of the hinge bracket 120 , the contacting cam pin 173 , 174 is pushed backward to elastically deform one end of the elastic piece 171 and move backward together with the end of the elastic piece 171 .
- the switch 175 , 176 generates on signal.
- the pair of switches 175 , 176 are arranged on both ends 171 a , 171 b of the elastic piece 171 facing each other and at a predetermined distance from each other.
- the switches 175 , 176 are supported by the signal cable 220 which is mounted in the fourth receiving recess 117 d .
- the signal cable 220 can be a flexible flexprint cable (FPC) supporting the switches 175 , 176 , and also connecting the switches 175 , 176 to the main circuit board 16 of the body 10 .
- the signal cable 220 is also mounted in the fourth receiving recess 117 d by proper fasteners, such as screws.
- the signal delivery unit 180 electrically connects a first member with a second member which is rotatably disposed with respect to the first member, to enable transmission of signal between the first element and the second element.
- the body 10 can be the first member and the camera system 20 be the second member.
- the signal delivery unit (cable bundle) 180 is a cable bundle having a plurality of signal cables therein and as shown in FIG. 14, the signal delivery unit 180 includes a first, second and third signal cables 181 , 183 , 184 of different lengths.
- the cable bundle 180 includes a winding portion 180 a , where the first, the second and the third signal cables 181 , 183 , 184 are in-part nested on one another, and a first and a second extension 180 b , 180 c (shown in FIG. 16) extending in parallel to the second axis Z of the winding portion 180 a and to both sides.
- the cable bundle 180 further includes a first branch 180 d (FIG.
- the number of windings that can be made in the winding portion 180 a is preferably and approximately 3.5 times, and the winding portion 180 a is disposed in the hinge apparatus 30 in a releasable and rewindable manner for a predetermined angle.
- the winding portion 180 a allows relative rotation of the fixing bracket 110 with respect to the hinge assembly 150 of an angle of approximately at 270°.
- the winding portion 180 a is received in the annular hole 116 of the fixing bracket 110 and in the annular groove 126 of the hinge bracket 120 .
- the winding portion 180 a has a shaft hole 180 f (shown in FIG. 16) in the center thereof for the respective shaft supporters 115 , 125 .
- the winding portion 180 a is formed by nesting (or laying one on top of the other) straight portions 181 a , 183 a , 185 a of the signal cables 181 , 183 , 185 , and then wound, preferably 3.5 times. Accordingly, the innermost straight portion of the first signal cable 181 , i.e., the first straight portion 181 a is the shortest, followed by the interposed (or second) straight portion 183 a and then the outermost (or third) straight portion 185 a , respectively.
- FIG. 15 is a plan view illustrating the respective signal cables 181 , 183 , 185 being turned upside down from the state as shown in FIG. 14.
- the first extension 180 b is inserted into the body 10 through the through hole 116 a of the fixing bracket 110 .
- the first extension 180 b as inserted is then bent as indicated by the phantom line approximately to 90° at the bending portion n 1 to be substantially perpendicular to the second axis Z, and also to be in close contact with the first receiving recess 117 a .
- the first extension 180 b includes the first extensions 181 b , 183 b , 185 b nesting on one another, which are bent at the first bending portion n 1 of the signal cables 181 , 183 , 185 at an angle of approximately 90°.
- the first extensions 181 b , 183 b , 185 b of the signal cables 181 , 183 , 185 are formed in the same length and width.
- the first branch 180 d is branched from the first extension 180 b according to the respective signal cables 181 , 183 , 185 .
- the first branch 180 d includes first connections 181 d , 183 d , 185 d for supporting the first connector T 1 on the ends thereof, and first split-extensions 181 c , 183 c , 185 c for connecting the first connections 181 d , 183 d , 185 d with the first extensions 181 b , 183 b , 185 b .
- the first connections 181 b , 183 b , 185 b are substantially parallel to the rotational axis Z, i.e., the second axis, and at a predetermined interval.
- the first connections 181 d , 183 d , 185 d are connected to the body 10 , i.e., to the main circuit board 16 .
- the first split extensions 181 c , 183 c , 185 c are extended from the first extensions 181 b , 183 b , 185 b to different lengths and substantially parallel to a first axis Y which crosses the second axis Z.
- the second extension 180 c is extended substantially parallel to the first extension 180 b , but to the opposite direction, and entered into the housing 21 through the passing hole 126 a of the hinge bracket 120 (see FIG. 22).
- the second extension 180 c is shorter in length than the first extension 180 b .
- the sub circuit board 26 is directly assembled to the hinge bracket 120 , and the sub circuit board 26 is smaller in size than the main circuit board 16 .
- the second extension 180 c is sized to be shorter than the first extension 180 b , and is bent approximately 90° immediately after the first extension 180 b passes out of the passing hole 126 a so that the first extension 180 b can contact the sub circuit board 26 .
- the second extension 180 c includes second extensions 181 e , 183 e , 185 e of the respective signal cables 181 , 183 , 185 which are nested on one another and bent from the second bending portion n 2 by approximately 90°.
- the second extensions 181 e , 183 e , 185 e have the same length in the second axis Z.
- the second branch 180 e is branched from the second extensions 181 e , 183 e , 185 e of the respective signal cables 181 , 183 , 185 at a predetermined interval.
- the second branch 180 e includes second connections 181 g , 183 g , 185 g parallel with the first connections 181 d , 183 d , 185 d at predetermined intervals, and second split extensions 181 f , 183 f , 185 f for connecting the second connections 181 g , 183 g , 185 g and the second extensions 181 e , 183 e , 185 e .
- the second extensions 181 g , 183 g , 185 g have the same length, and are connected to the camera system 20 , i.e., to the sub circuit board 26 .
- the second split extensions 181 f , 183 f , 185 f are extended from the second extensions 181 e , 183 e , 185 e in different lengths and in a direction that crosses the second axis Z to connect to the second connections 181 g 183 g , 185 g.
- the first connector T 1 is provided to the respective ends of the first connections 181 d , 183 d , 185 d , with each being exposed.
- the first connectors T 1 are arranged substantially perpendicular with respect to the first axis Y.
- the first connectors T 1 are electrically connected to the main circuit board 16 .
- the second connectors T 2 are provided to the ends of the second connections 181 g , 183 g , 185 g , with each also being exposed.
- the second connectors T 2 are arranged substantially perpendicular with respect to the second axis Y, and electrically connected to the sub circuit board 26 .
- the first and the second connectors T 1 , T 2 are exposed to the same plane of the signal cables 181 , 183 , 185 so as to face the same direction.
- the signal cables 181 , 183 , 185 constructed as above are preferably a flexprint cable (FPC) which has signal lines on both sides thereof.
- FPC flexprint cable
- 20 signal lines are provided to the signal cables 181 , 183 , 185 , respectively, so that the image signals captured by the camera units 23 , 25 are transmitted through the signal lines.
- One of the signal cables 181 , 183 , 185 can be formed with a larger thickness than the others.
- the third signal cable 185 can be formed thicker than the other signal cables 181 , 183 .
- coating layers d 1 , d 2 of a preferred material are provided to both sides of the third signal cable 183 .
- the material used for the coating layers d 1 , d 2 can be a material that is effective to substantially block the influence of noise and magnetic fields.
- d 1 and d 2 can be made up of a plastic shielding material, such as PVC. Accordingly, noise generated by the electric signals which are created by the magnetic field at the winding portion 180 a can be reduced.
- the thickest signal cable 183 may be connected so as to transmit a DSC signal, i.e., motion picture signals.
- first reinforcement members 187 a , 187 b , 187 c of predetermined thickness can be provided to one of the bending portions n 1 , n 2 of the respective signal cables 181 , 183 , 185 .
- the first reinforcement members 187 a , 187 b , 187 c are slimmer in thickness than the signal cables 181 , 183 , 185 , and can be joined by a chemical bond (i.e., glue).
- the first reinforcement members 187 a , 187 b , 187 c can be a film made of PVC.
- the reinforcement members 187 a , 187 b , 187 c can be provided to one or both of the bending portions n 1 , n 2 of the signal cables 181 , 183 , 185 .
- the first reinforcement members 187 a , 187 b , 187 c prevent the bending portions n 1 , n 2 from deformation and breakage, and also from peeling off by the friction from the contact with the hinge apparatus 30 .
- each signal cable 181 , 183 , 185 has a thickness ranging from at or about 0.15 mm to about 0.24 mm.
- Each first reinforcement member has a preferred thickness from at or about 0.12 mm to at or about 0.13 mm.
- the first and the second signal cables 181 , 183 can have a thickness from at or about 0.15 mm to at or about 0.17 mm, while the third signal cable 185 can have a thickness from at or about 0.22 mm to at or about 0.24 mm.
- Second reinforcement members 188 a , 188 b , 188 c are provided to both ends of the respective signal cables 181 , 183 , 185 .
- the second reinforcement members 188 a , 188 b , 188 c are provided opposite to the connectors T 1 , T 2 .
- connections between the connectors T 1 , T 2 and the signal lines are secured, and both ends of the signal cables 181 , 183 , 185 are prevented from deformation.
- the second reinforcement members 188 a , 188 b , 188 c are made of a material such as a PVC, and are thicker than the signal cables 181 , 183 , 185 , preferably having a thickness from at or about 0.4 mm to at or about 0.5 mm.
- the fastening unit includes a first fastening unit 40 to fasten the assembled hinge apparatus 30 to the housing 21 .
- the first fastening unit 40 includes a holder 41 protruding from the circumference of the hinge hole 21 a of the housing 21 , and a supporting boss 43 provided among the holders 41 .
- the holder 41 is created as a certain area of the circumference of the hinge hole 21 a which is cut and made to protrude to a predetermined height.
- the holder 41 has a screw hole 41 a defined therein.
- the fixtures 129 are fastened with the screw holes 41 a of the holders 41 , thus providing relative positions of the various components.
- the holder 41 and the fixtures 129 are fastened with each other by the screws (S).
- the hinge bracket 120 is turned to the right from a state wherein the fixtures 129 and the holders 41 are in proximity with each other (FIG. 23)
- the fixtures 129 are inserted and thus aligned with the holders 41 (FIG. 25).
- the fixtures 129 and the holders 41 are fastened by the screws (S).
- the fixtures 129 are at the same height as the first surface 121 a of the hinge bracket 120 , and the holders 41 are provided in a symmetrical fashion with respect to the second axis Z.
- the supporting boss 43 protrudes from the inner surface of the housing 21 to a predetermined height, and has a screw hole 43 a therein.
- the fixtures 129 are fastened to the supporting bosses 43 by the screws (S).
- the fastening unit further includes a second fastening unit 50 to fasten the hinge apparatus 30 to the body 10 .
- the second fastening unit 50 includes a first and a second supporting brackets 51 , 53 .
- the first supporting bracket 51 is partially inserted in the first connecting groove 118 a (see FIG. 4) which is formed in the outer circumference of the fixing bracket 110 , and then fastened to the inner wall of the main body 11 .
- the second supporting bracket 53 is inserted in the second connecting groove 118 b (see FIG. 4) opposite to the first connecting groove 118 a , and then fastened to the fixing bracket 110 and the main body 11 , respectively, by the screws (S).
- the click plate 191 is inserted into the second rib 114 of the fixing bracket 110 .
- the positioning protrusions 191 c of the click plate 191 are aligned with the positioning recesses 114 c of the fixing bracket 110 .
- the click plate 191 is securely connected with the fixing bracket 110 .
- the sensing unit 170 has already been fastened to the fixing bracket 110 .
- the hinge unit 150 is assembled.
- the plate spring 140 and then the contact plate 130 are inserted in the hinge bracket 120 .
- the plate spring 140 and the fixing holes 133 , 143 of the contact plate 130 are then inserted in the projections 123 of the hinge bracket 120 .
- the plate spring 140 and the contact plate 130 are secured in a predetermined position with respect to the hinge bracket 120 and can be rotated together.
- the hinge bracket 120 and the contact plate 130 are assembled such that the positioning slits 120 e , 130 e formed in the outer circumferences can be aligned with one another.
- the click balls 193 Prior to beginning the assembling process of hinge unit 150 , the click balls 193 have already been assembled in the contact plate 130 .
- the signal delivery unit 180 is then assembled to the hinge unit 150 , as shown in FIG. 10.
- the winding portion 180 a of the signal delivery unit 180 is received in the annular groove 126 of the hinge bracket 120 , with the second extensions 180 b and the second connections 180 e being passed through the passing hole 126 a of the hinge bracket 120 .
- the straight portions 181 a , 183 a , 185 a of the signal cables 181 , 183 , 185 are nested on one another.
- the bending portions n 2 of the respective signal cables 181 , 183 , 185 are aligned with one another (which is a slightly different configuration than what is shown in FIG. 15), and as shown in FIG. 16, the signal delivery unit 180 is wounded from the bending portions n 2 to a predetermined inner diameter.
- the wound signal delivery unit 180 is then half-assembled to the hinge bracket 120 .
- the fixing bracket 110 after being assembled with the click plate 191 , is then assembled to the hinge unit 150 which is assembled with the signal delivery unit 180 .
- the assembling is performed with the positioning slits 110 e of the fixing bracket 110 being aligned with the hinge bracket slit 120 e and contact plate slit 130 e .
- the shaft member 160 is passed through the fixing bracket 110 and the hinge unit 150 is caulked with the caulking plate 162 , so that the fixing bracket 110 and the hinge unit 150 are tightly assembled with each other under a predetermined pressure.
- the sub circuit board 26 is assembled to the hinge apparatus 30 as described above.
- the supporting bosses 128 a of the hinge bracket 120 are on the aligning ribs 128 b in tight contact, and the sub circuit board 26 is assembled with screws.
- the second extension 180 c that is exposed through the second surface 121 b of the hinge bracket 120 is bent approximately 90° so as to directly connect the second connections 180 e to the sub circuit board 26 .
- the hinge apparatus 30 is assembled so that the hinge apparatus 30 passes through the hinge hole 21 a from within the housing 21 .
- the fastening units 129 of the hinge bracket 120 are positioned in proximity to the holders 41 of the housing 21 , and the hinge bracket 120 is brought in tight contact with the inner wall of the housing 21 .
- the hinge apparatus 30 is turned to the right.
- the fastening units 129 are overlain with the holders 41 and the supporting bosses 43 .
- the hinge bracket of the hinge apparatus 30 is fastened to the housing 21 .
- the sub circuit board 26 and the signal delivery unit 180 are omitted from FIGS. 23 and 25.
- the body 10 is connected to the housing 21 by using the hinge apparatus 30 .
- the fixing bracket 110 of the hinge unit 30 and the contact plate 130 are passed through the hinge hole 11 a of the main body 11 .
- the supporting brackets 51 , 53 are inserted in the connecting grooves 118 a , 118 b in the outer circumference of the fixing bracket 110 , and fastened by the screws. Accordingly, the fixing bracket 110 is fastened to the main body 11 , and as a result, the housing 21 is movably connected to the main body 11 to rotate at a predetermined angle.
- removal of the camera unit 20 and the body 10 becomes easier. Accordingly, disassembling and assembling, for such purposes as repair, becomes easier.
- the first extension 180 b of the signal delivery unit 180 is bent approximately 90° to create a tight contact with the first receiving recess 117 b .
- the signal delivery member 210 is also bent approximately to 90° to create a tight contact with the second receiving recess 117 b .
- the signal cables 220 on which the switches 175 , 176 are supported are received in the fourth receiving recess 117 d and assembled by some screws. Accordingly, the signal delivery unit 210 in the second receiving recess 117 b is brought into tight contact by the signal cable 220 and is thus secured in place.
- the signal delivery unit 180 , the signal delivery member 210 , and the signal cables 220 are electrically connected with the main circuit board 16 and other components.
- the overall volume of the hinge unit 30 can be reduced. This also allows the interval with the main circuit board 26 to be reduced. As a result, the image photographing apparatus can be made of compact size.
- the housing 21 is rotatably connected with the body 10 by use of the hinge apparatus 30 which is capable of detecting the rotation of the housing 21 with respect to the body 10 . Therefore, according to the relative position of the rotating housing 21 , a signal for the selection of DSC mode or DVC mode is transmitted and received between the housing 21 and the body 10 . This is enabled by assembling the signal delivery unit 180 having a plurality of signal cables 181 , 183 , 185 to rotate integrally with the hinge apparatus 30 .
- the click force providing unit is provided to the hinge apparatus 30 , the user can feel the ‘clicking’ during the rotation of the housing 21 at every predetermined angle. Thus, the user can know and decide the range of the housing rotation.
- the click force providing unit includes the click balls 193 provided to the contact plate 130 , and the click plate 191 is secured in a predetermined position with respect to the fixing bracket 110 , this is but one configuration embodiment and should not be considered as limiting.
- Other various alternatives are possible.
- the position of the click balls 193 and the click plate 191 can be shifted with each other.
- the click plate 191 can be omitted, while the click holes are formed directly in the first surface 110 a of the fixing bracket 110 to correspond to the click balls 193 .
- the camera system is rotatably installed with respect to the body, while the DSC mode and the DVC mode can be selectively shifted (and determined) according to the rotational position of the camera system.
- the mode can be precisely detected. Further, because the signal delivery unit is installed to rotate together with the hinge apparatus within a predetermined angle, not only can the video signals captured by the camera units be transmitted and received between the body and the housing through the lines, but also various other electric signals.
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- Signal Processing (AREA)
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- Cameras In General (AREA)
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Abstract
A hinge apparatus for an image photographing apparatus wherein the hinge apparatus rotatably connects a housing with respect to a main body so that the housing can rotate in a predetermined rotation range. The hinge apparatus includes a fixing bracket secured to the main body, a hinge unit secured to the housing and connected to the fixing bracket to be reciprocatingly rotatable within a predetermined angle, a shaft member for rotatably connecting the hinge unit and the fixing bracket so that the hinge unit and the fixing bracket can be rotated with respect to each other, and a sensing unit disposed on the hinge unit and/or the fixing bracket to sense the relative rotational range of the hinge unit with respect to the fixing bracket.
Description
- This application claims the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 2003-28324 filed May 2, 2003, in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.
- 1. Field of the Invention
- The present invention relates to signal delivery in a digital camera, and, more particularly, a signal delivery apparatus which electrically connects for signal delivery, a first and second member rotating in relation to each other, a hinge apparatus and an image photographing apparatus (digital camera) using the same.
- 2. Description of the Related Art
- Generally, a digital still camera (DSC) converts images input through a lens into digital signals and records the digitized signals on a recording medium such as a hard disc or a memory card. Captured images are not necessarily recorded on film (e.g., 35 mm film), but can instead be stored in the recording medium and be directly output to an external device such as a computer, without having to use intermediate devices such as a scanner. Such a DSC has a high degree of compatibility with a personal computer, enabling easy editing and correcting of the photo image. With almost the same structure as that of regular camera, the DSC is also easy to carry. The DSC is primarily comprised of a lens device, a memory device, a signal modulating device, and a display device. However, due to the limited capacity of the recording medium, the DSC is mostly used to photograph still images. While in theory the DSC is able to capture motion pictures for a limited time, in practice, it is almost impossible to do so for a long period of time. In addition, as the DSC is currently unable to record and reproduce sound, the DSC is usually not used to take, record or reproduce motion pictures. Alternatively, a recording/reproducing apparatus such as a camcorder can be used to record and reproduce audio information as well as images of the object. Currently available camcorders typically use electromagnetic tape as a recording medium.
- The camcorder includes a lens device, a signal converting device, a deck device for recording/reproducing captured images and a display device. The camcorder usually uses a cassette tape as a recording medium which is mounted on the deck device to record captured motion pictures on the cassette tape. Additionally, the camcorder is provided with a microphone and speaker devices, and is able to capture motion pictures on the cassette tape mounted thereon for almost an hour. Camcorders can also photograph still images, but due to somewhat poor image quality as compared to the DSC, the camcorder is usually used for motion picture photographing. Additionally, the camcorder has a more complicated structure than the DSC, and a greater volume and is more expensive.
- As described above, in order to record and reproduce image and sound, consumers need to keep both a DSC and camcorder, which can be expensive. Furthermore, in order to record and reproduce image and sound, consumers need to carry both the DSC and the camcorder, which can be awkward and physcially tiring.
- An object of the present invention is to substantially solve at least the above problems and/or disadvantages and to provide at least the advantages described below.
- Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a hinge apparatus for an image photographing apparatus wherein the hinge apparatus rotatably connects a housing with respect to a main body so that the housing can rotate in a predetermined rotation range. The hinge apparatus includes a fixing bracket secured to the main body, a hinge unit secured to the housing and connected to the fixing bracket to be reciprocatingly rotatable within a predetermined angle, and a shaft member for rotatably connecting the hinge unit and the fixing bracket so that the hinge unit and the fixing bracket can be rotated with respect to each other. The hinge apparatus further includes a sensing unit disposed on the hinge unit and/or the fixing bracket to sense the relative rotational range of the hinge unit with respect to the fixing bracket.
- The above objects and other features of the present invention will become more apparent by describing in detail a preferred embodiment thereof with reference to the attached drawings, in which:
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating two main components of an image photographing apparatus according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;
- FIG. 2 is a schematic view illustrating the image photographing apparatus according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention;
- FIG. 3 is a side sectional view of the image photographing apparatus according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention;
- FIGS. 4 and 5 are exploded perspective views of a hinge apparatus according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;
- FIG. 6 is a plan view showing the fixing bracket of FIG. 4;
- FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing the fixing bracket and the click plate of FIG. 4 being connected;
- FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating the hinge of FIG. 4 being connected;
- FIG. 9 is a plan view illustrating the hinge bracket of FIG. 4;
- FIG. 10 is a perspective view illustrating the hinge apparatus of FIG. 4 with the signal delivery unit connected;
- FIG. 11 is a plan view illustrating the contact plate of FIG. 4;
- FIG. 12 is a plan view illustrating the clock plate of FIG. 4;
- FIG. 13 is a sectional view taken on line I-I of FIG. 11;
- FIGS. 14A through 14C are plan views illustrating the components of the signal delivery unit of FIG. 4 separately;
- FIG. 15 is a plan view illustrating the components of the signal delivery unit of FIG. 14 nested on one another;
- FIG. 16 is a perspective view illustrating a method for winding the nested signal deliver unit of FIG. 14;
- FIG. 17 is a perspective view illustrating the posture of the nested signal delivery unit in the image photographing apparatus according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;
- FIG. 18 is a sectional view of the nested signal delivery unit illustrated in FIG. 17 viewed from a side;
- FIG. 19 is a sectional view illustrating winding portion of the nested signal delivery unit of FIG. 17;
- FIG. 20 is a sectional view illustrating straight portions of the nested signal delivery unit of FIG. 15;
- FIG. 21 is a perspective view illustrating the nested signal delivery unit being assembled to the hinge apparatus according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;
- FIG. 22 is a perspective view illustrating a sub-circuit board being assembled to the hinge apparatus according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;
- FIG. 23 is a plan view illustrating the status of the hinge apparatus prior to it being assembled into the housing;
- FIG. 24 is a plan view illustrating the assembling status of the hinge apparatus after it is rotated from the position of FIG. 23;
- FIG. 25 is a sectional view taken on line11-11 of FIG. 24;
- FIG. 26 is a perspective view illustrating a hinge apparatus according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention being pre-assembled to the main body; and
- FIG. 27 is a plan view illustrating the hinge apparatus according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention being coupled to the main body.
- Hereinafter, the embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
- Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, an image photographing apparatus according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention is illustrated that includes a
body 10, acamera system 20 connected to thebody 10, ahinge apparatus 30 for movably connecting thebody 10 and thecamera system 20 in a rotatable fashion relative to each other, and asignal delivery unit 180. - Inside the
body 10 is amain body 11 having a movingdeck 12 to record a motion picture, and asub body 13 protruding from a side of themain body 11. Themoving deck 12 is open and closed by adeck door 14 which is movably disposed on the lower portion of themain body 11. Because the movingdeck 12 used in thebody 10 is well known to those skilled in the art, and is commonly used in a general camcorder, a detailed description of it will be omitted. Themain body 11 is also provided with aview finder 15, which displays the image as captured, or images as reproduced. AnLCD panel 17 is movably mounted on thesub body 13. - The
camera system 20 includes ahousing 21 movably disposed on thebody 10, and a camera unit housing a plurality of cameras each having a different number of pixels. Thehousing 21 is rotatably connected to thebody 10 by thehinge apparatus 30. Accordingly, thehousing 21 is movably connected to the side of thebody 10 so that thehousing 21 reciprocatingly rotates with respect to a second axis Z within a predetermined angle. The predetermined angle is at or about 270°. - As shown in FIG. 3, the camera unit includes a
first camera unit 23 that provides a digital still camera (DSC) function, and asecond camera unit 25 that provides a digital video camera function. The digital video camera has a fewer amount of pixels than thefirst camera unit 23 and photographs images including motion pictures. - The
first camera unit 23 has the same structure as that of the camera employed in a general digital still camera, and is provided with azoom lens 24. Thesecond camera unit 25 has the same structure as the photographing unit of a general camcorder. Therespective camera units camera units camera unit housing 21 and a predetermined driving range R. Thecamera units housing 21, respectively. According to the an embodiment of the present invention, if thecamera unit 23 is positioned within about ±45° with respect to the photographing direction A, it is driven, while theother camera unit 25 is not driven. As shown in FIG. 3, when thefirst camera unit 23 is in the photographing range R, the control unit receives a signal indicative of the rotational position of thehinge apparatus 30, and thus, subsequently shifts to a ‘DSC’ mode which photographs still images. The control unit then controls the driving of thefirst camera unit 23. In the opposite case, thefirst camera unit 23 is out of the photographing range R and thesecond camera unit 23 in the range R. A signal indicative of the rotational position of thehinge apparatus 30 is received, and the control unit shifts to a ‘DVC’ mode which photographs images including motion pictures, and controls the driving of thesecond camera unit 25. - In the
body 10, there also is amain circuit board 16, while asub circuit board 26 is housed in thehousing 21. Themain circuit board 16 and thesub circuit board 26 are electrically connected to each other for signal transmission and reception. Thesub circuit board 26 is also electrically connected to the first and thesecond camera units circuit boards circuit boards body 10 and thehousing 21 efficiently using the spaces, while being easily connected to thesignal delivery unit 180. - As shown in FIG. 1, the
hinge apparatus 30 is disposed on the connecting area between thehousing 21 and thebody 10. Thehinge apparatus 30 connects thehousing 21 to thebody 10 so that thehousing 21 can rotate in the second axis direction Z. To accommodate thehinge apparatus 30, there arehinge holes housing 21 and themain body 11. Eachhinge hole - Referring now to FIGS. 4 and 5, the
hinge apparatus 30 connects themain body 11 and thehousing 21 through the respective hinge holes 11 a, 21 a, and comprises a fixingbracket 110 secured to thebody 10, and ahinge unit 150 secured to thehousing 21 and connected to the fixingbracket 110 to rotate within a predetermined angle. Thehinge apparatus 30 further comprises ashaft member 160 that connects the fixingbracket 110 and thehinge unit 150 in a manner that the fixingbracket 110 and thehinge unit 150 rotate with respect to each other within a predetermined angle, asensing unit 170 that senses the rotational position of thehinge unit 150 with respect to the fixingbracket 110 and asignal delivery unit 180 that electrically connects thebody 10 with thecamera system 20. - The fixing
bracket 110 comprises abody 111 passed through thehinge hole 11 a and inserted in themain body 11 to be secured therein, and afirst locking protrusion 112 formed on afirst surface 111 a of thebody 111. The fixingbracket 110 further comprises afirst rib 113 protruding from thefirst surface 111 a to a different circumference from thefirst locking protrusion 112, and asecond rib 114 protruding from thefirst rib 113. - The
body 111 has ashaft hole 111 b at the center to receive theshaft member 160. Ashaft supporter 115 of a predetermined thickness is formed around theshaft hole 111 b. Thefirst protrusion 112 restricts the rotational movement of thehinge unit 150 when thefirst protrusion 112 is rotated with respect to thehinge unit 150. Referring to FIG. 6, thefirst protrusion 112 is provided at the extreme outer position of thefirst surface 111 a of thebody 111, and is formed at approximately 45° with respect to the second axis direction Z. In an embodiment of the present invention, the movement of thefirst protrusion 112 together with thesecond protrusion 132 have an angular displacement of approximately 90° with respect to the second axis direction Z. Therefore, the first and thesecond protrusions housing 21 for an angle of approximately 90°. Accordingly, thehousing 21 is allowed to reciprocatingly rotate 360° less the angular displacement of therespective protrusions 112, 132 (which is approximately 90°). As a result, thehousing 21 can rotate within approximately 270°. - The
first rib 113 protrudes from thefirst surface 111 a in an annular fashion to a predetermined height, and in an outer diameter smaller than inner diameter of thefirst protrusion 112. - The
second rib 114 protrudes from thefirst rib 113 in a smaller outer diameter than thefirst rib 113 and to another predetermined height. Each of the first and thesecond ribs hinge unit 150. Thefirst surface 111 a and thefirst protrusion 112 are in contact with thehinge unit 150. - Between the
second rib 114 and theshaft hole 111 b, there is anannular hole 116. Theannular hole 116 shares the outer circumference of theshaft supporter 115 and the inner surface of thesecond rib 114 as an inner and an outer surfaces s1, s2, and has a bottom surface s3 between the inner and the outer surfaces s1, s2. A part of thesignal delivery unit 180, which is wound a predetermined number of times, is received in theannular hole 116. Enough space is provided between the inner and the outer surfaces s1, s2 so as to allow the wound portion of thesignal delivery unit 180 in theannular hole 116 to be wound or unwound a predetermined number of times. - At the bottom surface s3 of the
annular hole 116, there is formed a throughhole 116 a of a suitable size for thesignal delivery unit 180 to pass therethrough. The throughhole 116 a is formed in the fixingbracket 110 in parallel with the second axis Z. - A plurality of
recesses 114 c is formed on the outer circumference of thesecond rib 114 to position a click plate 191 (which will be described in greater detail below) and secure it in the determined position. Therecesses 114 c are formed at irregular intervals with respect to the second axis Z, enabling theclick plate 191 to connect only at a predetermined position. - Additionally, the fixing
bracket 110 is provided with a pair of sensingholes second surface 111 c of the fixingbracket 110. The sensing holes 114 a, 114 b are formed at predetermined distances from each other, and at a predetermined distance from the second axis Z. As shown in FIG. 7, the cam pins 173, 174 of the sensing unit 170 (which will be described in greater detail below) protrude from thesecond rib 114 to pass through the sensing holes 114 a, 114 b. - Referring back to FIG. 4, a
first receiving recess 117 a is formed on thesecond surface 111 c of the fixingbracket 110 and is in communication with the throughhole 116 a. Thefirst receiving recess 117 a extends from the throughhole 116 a to the outer circumference of thebody 111. Thesignal delivery unit 180 passes through the throughhole 116 a and is received in thefirst receiving recess 117 a in a bent state at an angle of approximately 90°. Thefirst receiving recess 117 a is formed deeper than the thickness of thesignal delivery unit 180. - There is a
second receiving recess 117 b formed on thesecond surface 111 c of the fixingbracket 110, and is connected with theshaft hole 111 b. Thesecond receiving recess 117 b receives asignal delivery member 210 after thesignal delivery member 210 is passed through theshaft member 160, which is fit in theshaft hole 111 b. Thesecond receiving recess 117 b extends from theshaft hole 111 b to the outer circumference of thebody 111, and is formed to have an enough depth so that thesignal delivery member 210 can be received in thesecond receiving recess 117 b in a bent state without protruding from thesecond surface 111 c. - Additionally, there is a
third receiving recess 117 c formed on thefirst surface 111 c of the fixingbracket 110. Thethird receiving recess 117 c includes sensing holes 114 a, 114 b. Thethird receiving recess 117 c is formed such that it is centered about the second axis Z, and is in fluid communication with the sensing holes 114 a, 114 b. The sensing holes 114 a, 114 b receive thesensing unit 170. - A
fourth receiving recess 117 d is formed on thesecond surface 111 c of the fixingbracket 110 on a higher plane than thethird receiving recess 117 c. Thefourth receiving recess 117 d receives asignal cable 220 which connects thesensing unit 170 to themain circuit board 16 inside thebody 10. Thefourth receiving recess 117 b overlaps, in part, with thesecond receiving recess 117 b and formed on a higher plane than thesecond receiving recess 117 b. As a result, thesignal cable 220 in thefourth receiving recess 117 d supports thesignal delivery member 210 in thesecond receiving recess 117 b by tight contact. Thefourth receiving recess 117 d extends from a side of thethird receiving recess 117 c to the outer circumference of thebody 111. - The fixing
bracket 110 further includes a plurality of connectinggrooves body 111. Each of the connectinggrooves Support brackets 51, 53 (described in greater detail below) are fit in to the connectinggrooves bracket 110 is passed through thehinge hole 11 a of thebody 10, thesupport brackets grooves main body 11. Accordingly, the fixingbracket 110 is secured to thebody 10. - A plurality of screw holes119 are formed in fluid communication with the connecting
groove 118 b in thesecond surface 111 c of thebody 111. Screws are fastened into the screw holes 119 to fix thesupport bracket 53 fit in the connectinggroove 118 b onto the fixingbracket 110. - Referring now to FIG. 8, the
hinge unit 150 includes ahinge bracket 120 fixed onto thehousing 21, acontact plate 130 connected with thehinge bracket 120 and aplate spring 140 disposed between thehinge bracket 120 and thecontact plate 130. - Referring to FIG. 9, the
hinge bracket 120 includes abody 121 having ashaft hole 120 a defined therein to receive theshaft member 160, and anannular rib 122 protruding from thefirst surface 121 a of thebody 121. Thecontact plate 130 and theplate spring 140 are fastened to theannular rib 122 with the inner circumferences thereof being in close contact with the outer circumference of theannular rib 122. Positioning portions are formed respectively on theannular rib 122, thecontact plate 130 and theplate spring 140 to enable the complementary connection between thecontact plate 130, theplate spring 140 and theannular rib 122. The positioning portion includes a plurality ofprojections 123 formed on the outer circumference of theannular rib 122 toward thefirst surface 121 a of thehinge bracket 120, and fixingholes contact plate 130 and theplate spring 140 to correspond to theprojections 123. Theprojections 123 and the fixingholes contact plate 130 and theplate spring 140 to thehinge bracket 120 with theprojections 123 inserted into the fixingholes hinge bracket 120, thecontact plate 130 and theplate spring 140 can be rotated altogether. - The
hinge bracket 120 additionally includes anannular groove 126 which is defined between theannular rib 122 and theshaft hole 120 a. More specifically, theannular groove 126 is defined between the outer circumference of ashaft hole part 125 which has theshaft hole 120 a therein, and the inner circumference of theannular rib 122. As shown in FIG. 10, theannular groove 126, like theannular groove 116 of the fixingbracket 110, receives the wound portion of thesignal delivery unit 180. Accordingly, it is preferred that theannular groove 126 be in symmetrical configuration with theannular groove 116 of the fixingbracket 110. - A passing
hole 126 a of a predetermined size is formed in the bottom of theannular groove 126, and the signal deliverunit 180 is passed therethrough. Aseating recess 127 for acaulking plate 162 is formed on thesecond surface 121 b of thehinge bracket 120. Theseating recess 127 is in fluid communication with the passinghole 126 a which penetrates through thehinge bracket 120 caulking Theseating groove 127 is formed around theshaft hole 120 a to a predetermined depth and is substantially circular. Thecaulking plate 162 is seated on theseating recess 127 and is connected with theshaft member 160. - The
caulking plate 162 is connected to an end of theshaft member 160 which is passed through the shaft holes 111 b, 120 a of the fixingbracket 110 and thehinge bracket 120, to prevent separation of theshaft member 160 and securely connect the fixingbracket 110 and thehinge unit 150. Accordingly, as theshaft member 160 is received in thefastening hole 162 a of thecaulking plate 162, the end of theshaft member 160 is caulked and thus secured in position. Theshaft member 160 has a tubular shape with ahollow hole 160 a formed therein for thesignal delivery member 210 to pass through. Thesignal delivery member 210 includes approximately 10 signal lines for high capacity electric signals that can be transmitted by thesignal delivery unit 180. The signal lines of thesignal delivery member 210 are usually provided in a bundle. The signal delivery member further includes a power line. - A plurality of supporting
bosses 128 a are formed on thesecond surface 121 of thehinge bracket 120. Some of the supportingbosses 128 a have screw holes therein. Thesub circuit board 26, which is electrically connected with thesignal delivery unit 180, is seated on the supportingbosses 128 a and fastened by screws. - A pair of aligning
ribs 128 b protrudes from thesecond surface 121 a of thehinge bracket 120 in parallel to align thesignal delivery member 210 which passes through theshaft hole 120 a. The aligningribs 128 b extend from the outer circumference of thebody 121 to a height preferably the same as the supportingbosses 128 a. As a result, thesub circuit board 26 is supported by contact with the supportingbosses 128 a and the aligningribs 128 b. There is predetermined space between thesecond surface 121 a of thehinge bracket 120 and thesub circuit board 26, allowing thesignal delivery unit 180 and thesignal delivery member 210 to pass through without interruption. - A plurality of
fixtures 129 protrudes from the outer circumference of thebody 121 at predetermined intervals. Eachfixture 129 has a screw hole defined therein. Thehinge bracket 120 is secured to thehousing 21 through use of screws fastened into the screw holes. Some of thefixtures 129 are formed at the same height as thefirst surface 121 a of thebody 121, while the others are formed at the same height as thesecond surface 121 b. Preferably, thefixtures 129 can be formed in the second axis Z, with equal heights and in symmetrical relation with each other., Thefixtures 129 can then be used to make fastening to thehousing 21 more efficient and secure. This will be described in greater detail below. - A cam surface C, with a variable height, is provided to an upper end of the
annular rib 122 along the circumference of theannular rib 122, to detect the movement range of the fixingbracket 110 that rotates. In reference to FIGS. 8 and 9, the cam surface C includes an operating surface C1 formed by a predetermined length at substantially the same height as theannular rib 122, a non-contact surface C2 formed on a lower plane than the operating surface C1 but also with a predetermined length, and an inclined surface C3 connecting the operating surface C1 and the non-contact surface C2. The operating surface C1 faces thesecond rib 114 of the fixingbracket 110 in contact therewith. Accordingly, as cam pins 173, 174 protrude through the sensing holes 114 a, 114 b of thesecond rib 114, the cam pins 173, 174 are pushed backward by contact with the operating surface C1. Because the non-contact surface C2 is formed on a lower plane than the operating surface C1 to face but also remain spaced apart from thesecond rib 114 at a predetermined distance, the cam pins 173, 174 are not in contact with the non-contact surface C2. The inclined surface C3 guides the cam pins 173, 174 therealong. With respect to a circle having the second axis Z as a center, the operating surface C1 is formed to cover a length corresponding to a predetermined angle. Therefore, the operating surface C1 is formed at a predetermined length in consideration of the interval between the cam pins 173, 174 so that only one of the cam pins 173, 174 can be contacted and operated therealong. Accordingly, the length of the operating surface C1 determines the movement range of the selected one of the cam pins 173 174, and the operation mode of the first and thesecond camera units - As shown in FIG. 8, the
contact plate 130 fits in theannular rib 122 to face thefirst surface 121 a of thebody 121. Accordingly, thecontact plate 130 has an inner circumference corresponding to the outer circumference of theannular rib 122 of thecontact plate 130, and has the same, or smaller outer diameter when compared to that of the fixingbracket 110. On the surface of thecontact plate 130 facing the fixingbracket 110, there is asecond locking protrusion 132 corresponding to thefirst locking protrusion 112. Referring to FIG. 11, the second locking protrusion-132 is formed at the extreme outer side of thecontact plate 130. As described above, thesecond locking protrusion 132 is locked in thefirst locking protrusion 112 to limit the rotational movement range of thehousing 21 with respect to thebody 10. In this embodiment of the present invention, thesecond locking protrusion 132, together with thefirst locking protrusion 112, has an angular displacement of approximately 90°, which limits rotational movement of thehousing 21. - Preferably, each of the first and second locking
protrusions second locking protrusion 132 can protrude to the same plane as thefirst locking protrusion 112, is in contact with, and faces, thefirst surface 111 a of the fixingbracket 110. - The
plate spring 140 is preferably made of metal material which can be compressed and decompressed in the direction of second axis Z, to urge thecontact plate 130 toward the fixingbracket 110. The fixingbracket 110 in its normal state is inhibited from rotating with respect to thehinge unit 150 and can be rotated by a predetermined torsion force overcoming the frictional force. - The
hinge apparatus 30 further includes a click force providing unit disposed between the fixingbracket 110 and thecontact plate 130 to provide a predetermined click at predetermined intervals during the rotation of thehousing 21 with respect to thebody 10. The click force providing unit includes aclick plate 191 connected to the fixingbracket 110 and a plurality ofclick balls 193 arranged between theclick plate 191 and thecontact plate 130. - The
click plate 191 is preferably made of metal material and formed to a ring shape. On the side of theclick plate 191 facing thecontact plate 130, a plurality of click holes 191 a are formed. As shown in FIG. 12, the click holes 191 a are arranged at predetermined angles with respect to the center of second axis Z. In the embodiment of the present invention, the click holes 191 a are arranged in intervals of approximately 45°. Theclick balls 193 are clicked into the click holes 191 a. Accordingly, as theclick plate 191 is rotated, theclick balls 193 are repeatedly clicked in and out of the click holes 191 a. Theclick plate 191 further includes aguide groove 191 b connecting the click holes 191 a. More specifically, theguide groove 191 b guides theclick balls 193 rolling between the click holes 191 a. Theguide groove 191 b is formed on a higher plane than the click holes 191 a. - Referring to FIG. 7, the
click plate 191 of the above-described construction is secured in thesecond rib 114 and seated on thefirst rib 113 of the fixingbracket 110. Theclick plate 113 and thesecond rib 114 are respectively provided with a positioning portion to determine respective connection positions and secure theclick plate 113 and thesecond rib 114 in the determined connecting positions. The positioning portion includes a plurality ofpositioning holes 114 c formed on the outer circumference of thesecond rib 114 at predetermined intervals, and a plurality of positioningprotrusions 191 c formed on the inner circumference of theclick plate 191 to correspond to the positioning holes 114 c. The positioning holes 114 c and the positioningprotrusions 191 c are formed at irregular intervals. Because the position of the click holes 191 a are determined during the initial connection of theclick plate 191 with respect to the fixingbracket 110, the ‘clicking’ occurs at predetermined positions. For example, positioning can be made properly with respect to the cam pins 173, 174 so that clicking can occur in every on/off switching of modes between DVC and DSC modes. - The
click balls 193 are preferably made of a metal material, corresponding to the click holes 191 a respectively. As shown in FIG. 13, theclick balls 193 protrude from a surface of thecontact plate 130 for rolling motion. To accomplish the rolling motion, the click ball recesses 134 are formed on the surface of thecontact plate 130 with a radius r wider than that of theclick balls 193. Accordingly, theclick balls 193 can be seated with the center of gravity G stabley positioned in the click ball recesses 134. Therefore, theclick balls 193 are not easily dislodged from the click ball recesses 134. Preferably, lubricating oil is applied to the click ball recesses 134 for smooth rolling of theclick balls 193. Eachclick ball recess 134 includes aspherical surface 134 a on which theclick ball 193 is closely seated. An uprightcylindrical surface 134 b is formed at the entry part of theclick ball recess 134. Due to this structure, theclick balls 193 can be easily inserted in the click ball recesses 134. - As shown in FIG. 11, the
click balls 193 are selectively arranged around the second axis Z and along a surface of thecontact plate 130 at an interval of approximately 45°. Preferably, theclick balls 193 are not arranged on thecontact plate 130 where the fixingholes 133 are formed. - In order to make sure that the clicking occurs in the correct positions, the clicking positioning portions are provided to the fixing
bracket 110, thehinge bracket 120 and thecontact plate 130, respectively. The clicking positioning portions include positioningslits plate 110, thehinge bracket 120 and thecontact plate 130. When the clicking positioning portions are assembled, as shown in FIG. 8, thehinge bracket 120 and thecontact plate 130 are first assembled with each other, with the hinge bracket slit 120 e and contact plate slit 130 e being aligned with each other and theplate spring 140 being interposed therebetween. The fixingbracket 110 is then placed in contact with thecontact plate 130 and with the hinge bracket slit 120 e, and the contact plate slit 130 e is aligned with the fixing bracket slit 110 e. Accordingly, therespective click balls 193 and the click holes 191 a are docked in the intended positions, whereby the clicking action can occur. The cam pins 173, 174 of the sensing unit 170 (described in greater detail below) and the cam surface C can also be made to align with each other in assembling process. - The
sensing unit 170 is provided to the fixingbracket 110 and/or thehinge unit 150 to sense the relative rotation of thehinge unit 150 with respect to the fixingbracket 110. Accordingly, the above-mentioned ‘photography mode’ is determined based on the sensing signal from thesensing unit 170. Thesensing unit 170 includes anelastic piece 171 disposed on thesecond surface 111 c of thebody 111 of the fixingbracket 110, a pair of cam pins 173, 174 disposed on both ends 171 a, 171 b of theelastic piece 171, and a pair ofswitches - The
elastic piece 171 is preferably made of a metal material, and is inserted in thethird receiving recess 117 c of thefirst surface 111 a of thebody 111. Theelastic piece 171 is secured onto the bottom of thethird receiving recess 117 c, approximately at the middle portion thereof by proper fasteners such as screws. Both ends 171 a, 171 b of theelastic piece 171 remain as free ends to allow for elastic deformation and recovery. - Referring to FIG. 7, the cam pins173, 174 are supported on both ends 171 a, 171 b of the
elastic piece 171, and protrude towards thefirst surface 111 a of thebody 111 through the sensing holes 114 a, 114 b formed in thebody 111. Cam pins 173, 174 are positioned to protrude through the section of thesecond rib 114 having the sensing holes 114 a, 114 b therein, and thus face the cam surface C of thehinge bracket 120. Accordingly, if any one of the cam pins 173, 174 contacts the operating surface C1 of the cam surface C during rotation of thehinge bracket 120, the contactingcam pin elastic piece 171 and move backward together with the end of theelastic piece 171. As the backwardly moving end of theelastic piece 171 contacts thecorresponding switch switch - The pair of
switches elastic piece 171 facing each other and at a predetermined distance from each other. Theswitches signal cable 220 which is mounted in thefourth receiving recess 117 d. In one embodiment of the present invention, thesignal cable 220 can be a flexible flexprint cable (FPC) supporting theswitches switches main circuit board 16 of thebody 10. Thesignal cable 220 is also mounted in thefourth receiving recess 117 d by proper fasteners, such as screws. - The
signal delivery unit 180 electrically connects a first member with a second member which is rotatably disposed with respect to the first member, to enable transmission of signal between the first element and the second element. In one embodiment of the present invention, thebody 10 can be the first member and thecamera system 20 be the second member. - The signal delivery unit (cable bundle)180 is a cable bundle having a plurality of signal cables therein and as shown in FIG. 14, the
signal delivery unit 180 includes a first, second andthird signal cables cable bundle 180 includes a windingportion 180 a, where the first, the second and thethird signal cables second extension portion 180 a and to both sides. Thecable bundle 180 further includes afirst branch 180 d (FIG. 16) extending from thefirst extension 180 b with respect to signalcables second branch 180 e extended from thesecond extension 180 c with respect to therespective signal cables second branches - The number of windings that can be made in the winding
portion 180 a is preferably and approximately 3.5 times, and the windingportion 180 a is disposed in thehinge apparatus 30 in a releasable and rewindable manner for a predetermined angle. The windingportion 180 a allows relative rotation of the fixingbracket 110 with respect to thehinge assembly 150 of an angle of approximately at 270°. The windingportion 180 a is received in theannular hole 116 of the fixingbracket 110 and in theannular groove 126 of thehinge bracket 120. Further, the windingportion 180 a has ashaft hole 180 f (shown in FIG. 16) in the center thereof for therespective shaft supporters - Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, the winding
portion 180 a is formed by nesting (or laying one on top of the other)straight portions signal cables first signal cable 181, i.e., the firststraight portion 181 a is the shortest, followed by the interposed (or second)straight portion 183 a and then the outermost (or third)straight portion 185 a, respectively. When the first, second and thirdstraight portions straight portions straight portions signal cables portion 180 a is spiral shaped with a hollow space (180F) defined therein. FIG. 15 is a plan view illustrating therespective signal cables - As shown in FIG. 21, the
first extension 180 b is inserted into thebody 10 through the throughhole 116 a of the fixingbracket 110. Thefirst extension 180 b as inserted is then bent as indicated by the phantom line approximately to 90° at the bending portion n1 to be substantially perpendicular to the second axis Z, and also to be in close contact with thefirst receiving recess 117 a. Thefirst extension 180 b includes thefirst extensions signal cables first extensions signal cables - The
first branch 180 d is branched from thefirst extension 180 b according to therespective signal cables first branch 180 d includesfirst connections extensions first connections first extensions first connections first connections body 10, i.e., to themain circuit board 16. Further, in order to connect thefirst connections first extensions first split extensions first extensions - Meanwhile, the
second extension 180 c is extended substantially parallel to thefirst extension 180 b, but to the opposite direction, and entered into thehousing 21 through the passinghole 126 a of the hinge bracket 120 (see FIG. 22). Thesecond extension 180 c is shorter in length than thefirst extension 180 b. This is because thesub circuit board 26 is directly assembled to thehinge bracket 120, and thesub circuit board 26 is smaller in size than themain circuit board 16. Accordingly, thesecond extension 180 c is sized to be shorter than thefirst extension 180 b, and is bent approximately 90° immediately after thefirst extension 180 b passes out of the passinghole 126 a so that thefirst extension 180 b can contact thesub circuit board 26. - As shown in FIG. 15, the
second extension 180 c includessecond extensions respective signal cables second extensions - The
second branch 180 e is branched from thesecond extensions respective signal cables second branch 180 e includessecond connections first connections second split extensions second connections second extensions second extensions camera system 20, i.e., to thesub circuit board 26. - The
second split extensions second extensions second connections 181g - The first connector T1 is provided to the respective ends of the
first connections cable bundle 180 is assembled, the first connectors T1 are arranged substantially perpendicular with respect to the first axis Y. The first connectors T1 are electrically connected to themain circuit board 16. - Additionally, the second connectors T2 are provided to the ends of the
second connections sub circuit board 26. The first and the second connectors T1, T2 are exposed to the same plane of thesignal cables - The
signal cables signal cables camera units - One of the
signal cables third signal cable 185 can be formed thicker than theother signal cables signal cable 185 thicker than the others, coating layers d1, d2 of a preferred material are provided to both sides of thethird signal cable 183. Preferably, the material used for the coating layers d1, d2 can be a material that is effective to substantially block the influence of noise and magnetic fields. For example, d1 and d2 can be made up of a plastic shielding material, such as PVC. Accordingly, noise generated by the electric signals which are created by the magnetic field at the windingportion 180 a can be reduced. - Furthermore, the
thickest signal cable 183 may be connected so as to transmit a DSC signal, i.e., motion picture signals. - Referring again to FIG. 14,
first reinforcement members respective signal cables first reinforcement members signal cables first reinforcement members reinforcement members signal cables first reinforcement members hinge apparatus 30. - Preferably, each
signal cable second signal cables third signal cable 185 can have a thickness from at or about 0.22 mm to at or about 0.24 mm. -
Second reinforcement members respective signal cables second reinforcement members second reinforcement members signal cables second reinforcement members signal cables - As shown in FIG. 21, there is a fastening unit to fasten the
signal delivery unit 180, the fixingbracket 110, and thehinge apparatus 30 assembled with thehinge unit 150 to thehousing 21 and then to thebody 10. Referring to FIGS. 23 and 24, the fastening unit includes afirst fastening unit 40 to fasten the assembledhinge apparatus 30 to thehousing 21. Thefirst fastening unit 40 includes aholder 41 protruding from the circumference of thehinge hole 21 a of thehousing 21, and a supportingboss 43 provided among theholders 41. Theholder 41 is created as a certain area of the circumference of thehinge hole 21 a which is cut and made to protrude to a predetermined height. Theholder 41 has ascrew hole 41 a defined therein. Thefixtures 129 are fastened with the screw holes 41 a of theholders 41, thus providing relative positions of the various components. Theholder 41 and thefixtures 129 are fastened with each other by the screws (S). As thehinge bracket 120 is turned to the right from a state wherein thefixtures 129 and theholders 41 are in proximity with each other (FIG. 23), thefixtures 129 are inserted and thus aligned with the holders 41 (FIG. 25). Thefixtures 129 and theholders 41 are fastened by the screws (S). Thefixtures 129 are at the same height as thefirst surface 121 a of thehinge bracket 120, and theholders 41 are provided in a symmetrical fashion with respect to the second axis Z. - The supporting
boss 43 protrudes from the inner surface of thehousing 21 to a predetermined height, and has ascrew hole 43 a therein. Thefixtures 129 are fastened to the supportingbosses 43 by the screws (S). - As shown in FIG. 26, the fastening unit further includes a
second fastening unit 50 to fasten thehinge apparatus 30 to thebody 10. Referring now to FIG. 27, thesecond fastening unit 50 includes a first and a second supportingbrackets bracket 51 is partially inserted in the first connectinggroove 118 a (see FIG. 4) which is formed in the outer circumference of the fixingbracket 110, and then fastened to the inner wall of themain body 11. The second supportingbracket 53 is inserted in the second connectinggroove 118 b (see FIG. 4) opposite to the first connectinggroove 118 a, and then fastened to the fixingbracket 110 and themain body 11, respectively, by the screws (S). - A description of the assembling process for the image photographing apparatus constructed as above according to an embodiment of the present invention will now be given. Generally, the assembling process can be divided into assembling the
hinge apparatus 30, assembling of the assembledhinge apparatus 30 with thehousing 21, and then assembling of thebody 10 with thehinge apparatus 30 andhousing 21. - The assembling process of the
hinge apparatus 30 will first be described. As shown in FIG. 7, theclick plate 191 is inserted into thesecond rib 114 of the fixingbracket 110. The positioningprotrusions 191 c of theclick plate 191 are aligned with the positioning recesses 114 c of the fixingbracket 110. As a result, theclick plate 191 is securely connected with the fixingbracket 110. However, prior to aligning the positioning protrusions 151 c, of theclick plate 191 with thepositioning recess 114 c of the fixingbracket 110, thesensing unit 170 has already been fastened to the fixingbracket 110. - Next, as shown in FIG. 8, the
hinge unit 150 is assembled. To assemble thehinge unit 150, theplate spring 140, and then thecontact plate 130 are inserted in thehinge bracket 120. Theplate spring 140 and the fixingholes contact plate 130 are then inserted in theprojections 123 of thehinge bracket 120. As a result, theplate spring 140 and thecontact plate 130 are secured in a predetermined position with respect to thehinge bracket 120 and can be rotated together. Thehinge bracket 120 and thecontact plate 130 are assembled such that the positioning slits 120 e, 130 e formed in the outer circumferences can be aligned with one another. Prior to beginning the assembling process ofhinge unit 150, theclick balls 193 have already been assembled in thecontact plate 130. - After the
hinge unit 150 has been assembled, thesignal delivery unit 180 is then assembled to thehinge unit 150, as shown in FIG. 10. The windingportion 180 a of thesignal delivery unit 180 is received in theannular groove 126 of thehinge bracket 120, with thesecond extensions 180 b and thesecond connections 180 e being passed through the passinghole 126 a of thehinge bracket 120. In winding thesignal delivery unit 180, as shown in FIG. 15, thestraight portions signal cables respective signal cables signal delivery unit 180 is wounded from the bending portions n2 to a predetermined inner diameter. The woundsignal delivery unit 180 is then half-assembled to thehinge bracket 120. - The fixing
bracket 110, after being assembled with theclick plate 191, is then assembled to thehinge unit 150 which is assembled with thesignal delivery unit 180. The assembling is performed with the positioning slits 110 e of the fixingbracket 110 being aligned with the hinge bracket slit 120 e and contact plate slit 130 e. Next, as shown in FIG. 21, with thefirst extension 180 b and thefirst connection 180 d of thesignal delivery unit 180 having been passed through the passinghole 116 a, theshaft member 160 is passed through the fixingbracket 110 and thehinge unit 150 is caulked with thecaulking plate 162, so that the fixingbracket 110 and thehinge unit 150 are tightly assembled with each other under a predetermined pressure. - As shown in FIG. 22, the
sub circuit board 26 is assembled to thehinge apparatus 30 as described above. The supportingbosses 128 a of thehinge bracket 120 are on the aligningribs 128 b in tight contact, and thesub circuit board 26 is assembled with screws. Next, thesecond extension 180 c that is exposed through thesecond surface 121 b of thehinge bracket 120 is bent approximately 90° so as to directly connect thesecond connections 180 e to thesub circuit board 26. - As shown in FIG. 23, the
hinge apparatus 30 is assembled so that thehinge apparatus 30 passes through thehinge hole 21 a from within thehousing 21. Next, thefastening units 129 of thehinge bracket 120 are positioned in proximity to theholders 41 of thehousing 21, and thehinge bracket 120 is brought in tight contact with the inner wall of thehousing 21. Then, thehinge apparatus 30 is turned to the right. As a result, and as shown in FIGS. 24 and 25, thefastening units 129 are overlain with theholders 41 and the supportingbosses 43. By fastening thefastening units 129 to theholders 41 and the supportingbosses 43 with the screws, the hinge bracket of thehinge apparatus 30 is fastened to thehousing 21. In order to minimize the complexity of discussing the assembling process, thesub circuit board 26 and thesignal delivery unit 180 are omitted from FIGS. 23 and 25. - When assembling the
hinge apparatus 30 and thehousing 21 have been assembled together, some components, including the first and thesecond camera units housing 21 and are connected to the secondsub circuit board 26. Thesignal delivery unit 210 is passed through the hollow space of theshaft member 160 to connect with the components mounted in thehousing 21. - After the
housing 21 with thehinge apparatus 30 connected thereto is completely assembled, i.e., when thecamera system 20 is completely assembled, and optical arrangement and required tests of thecamera units body 10 is connected to thehousing 21 by using thehinge apparatus 30. - First, as shown in FIG. 26, the fixing
bracket 110 of thehinge unit 30 and thecontact plate 130 are passed through thehinge hole 11 a of themain body 11. Then, as shown in FIG. 27, the supportingbrackets grooves bracket 110, and fastened by the screws. Accordingly, the fixingbracket 110 is fastened to themain body 11, and as a result, thehousing 21 is movably connected to themain body 11 to rotate at a predetermined angle. As described above, by completing the assembling of thebody 10 with thehinge apparatus 30 later using separate supportingbrackets camera unit 20 and thebody 10 becomes easier. Accordingly, disassembling and assembling, for such purposes as repair, becomes easier. - The
first extension 180 b of thesignal delivery unit 180 is bent approximately 90° to create a tight contact with thefirst receiving recess 117 b. Thesignal delivery member 210 is also bent approximately to 90° to create a tight contact with thesecond receiving recess 117 b. Next, thesignal cables 220 on which theswitches fourth receiving recess 117 d and assembled by some screws. Accordingly, thesignal delivery unit 210 in thesecond receiving recess 117 b is brought into tight contact by thesignal cable 220 and is thus secured in place. Thesignal delivery unit 180, thesignal delivery member 210, and thesignal cables 220 are electrically connected with themain circuit board 16 and other components. Furthermore, by accommodating thesignal delivery unit 180, the signal delivery member and thesignal cables recesses first surface 111 a in close contact, the overall volume of thehinge unit 30 can be reduced. This also allows the interval with themain circuit board 26 to be reduced. As a result, the image photographing apparatus can be made of compact size. - After assembling the
hinge apparatus 30 and themain body 11, the whole assembling process is finally completed as the various components such as movingdeck 12, are assembled in the corresponding position of themain body 11 and thesub body 13, respectively. - With the image photographing apparatus using the signal delivery unit according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the
housing 21 is rotatably connected with thebody 10 by use of thehinge apparatus 30 which is capable of detecting the rotation of thehousing 21 with respect to thebody 10. Therefore, according to the relative position of therotating housing 21, a signal for the selection of DSC mode or DVC mode is transmitted and received between thehousing 21 and thebody 10. This is enabled by assembling thesignal delivery unit 180 having a plurality ofsignal cables hinge apparatus 30. - Furthermore, as the click force providing unit is provided to the
hinge apparatus 30, the user can feel the ‘clicking’ during the rotation of thehousing 21 at every predetermined angle. Thus, the user can know and decide the range of the housing rotation. - Although the click force providing unit includes the
click balls 193 provided to thecontact plate 130, and theclick plate 191 is secured in a predetermined position with respect to the fixingbracket 110, this is but one configuration embodiment and should not be considered as limiting. Other various alternatives are possible. For example, and although not shown in the drawings, the position of theclick balls 193 and theclick plate 191 can be shifted with each other. Or, alternatively, theclick plate 191 can be omitted, while the click holes are formed directly in the first surface 110 a of the fixingbracket 110 to correspond to theclick balls 193. - With the signal delivery unit, the hinge apparatus and the image photographing apparatus according to the present invention as described above, the camera system is rotatably installed with respect to the body, while the DSC mode and the DVC mode can be selectively shifted (and determined) according to the rotational position of the camera system.
- More specifically, through the use of the sensing unit provided to the hinge apparatus to detect the rotational position of the housing, the mode can be precisely detected. Further, because the signal delivery unit is installed to rotate together with the hinge apparatus within a predetermined angle, not only can the video signals captured by the camera units be transmitted and received between the body and the housing through the lines, but also various other electric signals.
- Furthermore, because disassembling and assembling of the hinge apparatus, the housing, and the body become easier, maintenance and repairs are easier to perform, and improve as a result.
- Although a few preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention should not be limited to the described preferred embodiments, but various changes and modifications can be made within the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.
Claims (25)
1. A hinge apparatus for rotatably connecting a housing with respect to a main body of an image photographing apparatus providing rotation of the housing in a predetermined rotation range, wherein the hinge apparatus comprises:
a fixing bracket secured to the main body;
a hinge unit secured to the housing, and connected to the fixing bracket to be reciprocatingly rotatable within a predetermined angle;
a shaft member for rotatably connecting the hinge unit and the fixing bracket so that the hinge unit and the fixing bracket can rotate with respect to each other; and
a sensing unit disposed on at least one of the hinge unit and the fixing bracket to sense the relative rotational range of the hinge unit with respect to the fixing bracket.
2. The hinge apparatus for rotatably connecting a housing with respect to a main body of an image photographing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the fixing bracket comprises:
a body having a first surface;
a first locking protrusion protruding from the first surface of the body for restricting the rotational movement of the hinge unit when the first locking protrusion is rotated with respect to the hinge unit.
3. The hinge apparatus for rotatably connecting a housing with respect to a main body of an image photographing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the fixing bracket further comprises:
a first rib protruding from the first surface at a radial distance different from that at which the first locking protrusion protrudes; and
a second rib protruding from the first rib, wherein said first and second rib being arranged to couple said fixing bracket to said hinge unit.
4. The hinge apparatus for rotatably connecting a housing with respect to a main body of an image photographing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the fixing bracket further comprises:
a shaft hole for receiving the shaft member for rotatably connecting the hinge unit and the fixing bracket so that the hinge unit and the fixing bracket can rotate with respect to each other.
5. The hinge apparatus for rotatably connecting a housing with respect to a main body of an image photographing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the fixing bracket further comprises:
a pair of sensing holes for detection by the sensing unit to enable the sensing unit to sense the relative rotational range of the hinge unit with respect to the fixing bracket.
6. The hinge apparatus for rotatably connecting a housing with respect to a main body of an image photographing apparatus according to claim 5 , wherein the pair of sensing holes are formed at predetermined distances from each other, and at a predetermined distance from the first axis.
7. The hinge apparatus for rotatably connecting a housing with respect to a main body of an image photographing apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the first locking protrusion is provided at an outer position of the first surface of the body, and is formed at approximately 45° with respect to a first axis direction through the center of the hinge apparatus.
8. The hinge apparatus for rotatably connecting a housing with respect to a main body of an image photographing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the hinge unit comprises:
a hinge bracket fixed onto the housing;
a contact plate connected with the hinge bracket; and
a plate spring disposed between the hinge bracket and the contact plate for urging the contact plate toward the fixing bracket.
9. The hinge apparatus for rotatably connecting a housing with respect to a main body of an image photographing apparatus according to claim 8 , wherein the hinge bracket comprises:
a body, comprising a first surface, a shaft hole for receiving the shaft member and an annular rib protruding from the first surface.
10. The hinge apparatus for rotatably connecting a housing with respect to a main body of an image photographing apparatus according to claim 9 , wherein the annular rib comprises:
a cam surface, with a variable height, provided to an upper end of the annular rib along the circumference of the annular rib, for detecting a movement range of the fixing bracket that rotates.
11. The hinge apparatus for rotatably connecting a housing with respect to a main body of an image photographing apparatus according to claim 10 , wherein the cam surface comprises:
an operating surface formed by a first predetermined length at the substantially the same height as the annular rib, wherein the operating surface faces the second rib of the fixing bracket in contact therewith;
a non-contact surface formed on a lower plane than the operating surface with a second predetermined length; and
an inclined surface connecting the operating surface and the non-contact surface.
12. The hinge apparatus for rotatably connecting a housing with respect to a main body of an image photographing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the sensing unit comprises:
a substantially elastic piece;
a pair of cam pins disposed on both ends of the elastic piece for sensing the relative rotational range of the hinge unit with respect to the fixing bracket; and
a pair of switches provided to the positions corresponding to the cam pins for providing a signal indicating an operating mode of the image photographing apparatus.
13. The hinge apparatus for rotatably connecting a housing with respect to a main body of an image photographing apparatus according to claim 12 , wherein the elastic piece includes metal.
14. The hinge apparatus for rotatably connecting a housing with respect to a main body of an image photographing apparatus according to claim 12 , wherein the cam pins are positioned to protrude through sensing holes disposed in the fixing bracket.
15. The hinge apparatus for rotatably connecting a housing with respect to a main body of an image photographing apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising:
a click force providing unit disposed between the fixing bracket and the contact plate for providing a predetermined indication at predetermined intervals during the rotation of the housing with respect to the body.
16. The hinge apparatus for rotatably connecting a housing with respect to a main body of an image photographing apparatus according to claim 15 , wherein the click force providing unit comprises:
a click plate connected to the fixing bracket; and
at least one click ball arranged between the click plate and the contact plate for providing the predetermined indication.
17. The hinge apparatus for rotatably connecting a housing with respect to a main body of an image photographing apparatus according to claim 16 , wherein the click plate further comprises:
a plurality of click balls.
18. The hinge apparatus for rotatably connecting a housing with respect to a main body of an image photographing apparatus according to claim 16 , wherein the click plate includes metal.
19. The hinge apparatus for rotatably connecting a housing with respect to a main body of an image photographing apparatus according to claim 16 , wherein the click plate further comprises:
a plurality of click holes formed at predetermined angles with respect to the first axis.
20. The hinge apparatus for rotatably connecting a housing with respect to a main body of an image photographing apparatus according to claim 19 , wherein the predetermined angles are arranged in intervals of approximately 45°.
21. The hinge apparatus for rotatably connecting a housing with respect to a main body of an image photographing apparatus according to claim 16 , wherein the click plate further comprises:
a guide groove for guiding the click balls to roll between the click holes.
22. The hinge apparatus for rotatably connecting a housing with respect to a main body of an image photographing apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising:
a pair of sensor holes disposed within the fixing bracket;
a cam surface comprising an operating surface, a non-contact surface and an inclined surface, the cam surface located on the hinge unit; and
an elastic piece comprising a pair of cam pins disposed to protrude through the pair of sensor holes, and a pair of switches disposed to contact the pair of cam pins;
wherein as the cam pins protrude through the sensing holes, the cam pins are pushed backwards by contact with the operating surface to contact one of the pair of switches due to the operating surface being formed of a third predetermined length in consideration of the interval between the cam pins such that only one of the cam pins can be contacted by the operating surface, and an operating mode of the image photographing apparatus is determined by which cam pin contacts the operating surface and is pushed back to contact one of the pair of switches.
23. The hinge apparatus for rotatably connecting a housing with respect to a main body of an image photographing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein:
the image photographing apparatus comprises a first camera unit and a second camera unit; and
the fixing bracket, the hinge unit, and the shaft member for allowing rotational movement between the first and second camera unit.
24. The hinge apparatus for rotatably connecting a housing with respect to a main body of an image photographing apparatus according to claim 23 , wherein the first camera unit is a digital still camera, and the second camera unit is a digital video camera.
25. The hinge apparatus for rotatably connecting a housing with respect to a main body of an image photographing apparatus according to claim 23 , wherein the sensing unit determines one of a first operating mode that indicates a digital still camera mode, and a second operating mode that indicates a digital video camera mode.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
KR1020030028324A KR100794786B1 (en) | 2003-05-02 | 2003-05-02 | Signal delivery apparatus and hinge apparatus and image photographing apparatus |
KR2003-28324 | 2003-05-02 |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20040223080A1 true US20040223080A1 (en) | 2004-11-11 |
US7391467B2 US7391467B2 (en) | 2008-06-24 |
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ID=32985953
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/777,074 Expired - Fee Related US7391467B2 (en) | 2003-05-02 | 2004-02-13 | Signal delivery apparatus, hinge apparatus and image photographing apparatus |
Country Status (5)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US7391467B2 (en) |
EP (2) | EP1473929A3 (en) |
JP (1) | JP2004336718A (en) |
KR (1) | KR100794786B1 (en) |
CN (1) | CN1257661C (en) |
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US20040212709A1 (en) * | 2002-10-09 | 2004-10-28 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Image photographing apparatus |
US20050054227A1 (en) * | 2003-08-20 | 2005-03-10 | Tomoki Takahashi | Electronic apparatus and camera having connectors |
US20050200741A1 (en) * | 2004-03-10 | 2005-09-15 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Image photography apparatus and manufacturing method thereof |
US20110235253A1 (en) * | 2009-09-29 | 2011-09-29 | Sierra Wireless, Inc. | Peripheral device with limited relative angular movement |
US20120257064A1 (en) * | 2010-02-01 | 2012-10-11 | Youngkook Electronics Co, Ltd | Tracking and monitoring camera device and remote monitoring system using same |
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WO2005071947A1 (en) * | 2004-01-23 | 2005-08-04 | Sony Corporation | Turning hinge mechanism and image pick up device |
KR100754524B1 (en) * | 2006-09-19 | 2007-09-03 | 삼성전자주식회사 | Hinge apparatus and electronic device having the same |
JP5324946B2 (en) * | 2008-04-25 | 2013-10-23 | 富士重工業株式会社 | Stereo camera unit |
US8628257B2 (en) * | 2011-10-26 | 2014-01-14 | Canon Kabushiki Kaisha | Image-pickup apparatus, camera grip, and image-pickup system |
DE102013218222A1 (en) | 2013-09-11 | 2015-03-12 | Arnold & Richter Cine Technik Gmbh & Co. Betriebs Kg | Viewfinder and control unit |
JP6289190B2 (en) * | 2014-03-19 | 2018-03-07 | キヤノン株式会社 | Imaging device |
FR3024384A1 (en) * | 2014-07-30 | 2016-02-05 | Aldebaran Robotics | IMPROVING THE ASSEMBLY OF A HUMANOID ROBOT |
CN104713713B (en) * | 2015-01-30 | 2018-08-24 | 深圳一电科技有限公司 | Articulated structure service life test machine |
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Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
EP1473929A2 (en) | 2004-11-03 |
KR20040094246A (en) | 2004-11-09 |
EP1768385A2 (en) | 2007-03-28 |
EP1473929A3 (en) | 2005-06-22 |
KR100794786B1 (en) | 2008-01-21 |
CN1543303A (en) | 2004-11-03 |
US7391467B2 (en) | 2008-06-24 |
JP2004336718A (en) | 2004-11-25 |
CN1257661C (en) | 2006-05-24 |
EP1768385A3 (en) | 2007-10-03 |
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